E11 | Extraordinary Dogs | The Unassuming Hero

The Sussex Police Working Dogs unit is responsible for patrolling a population of over 1.5 million people. We will find out what goes in to the training of a 'general purpose dog and witness how these training methods are put into practice on duty. English Springer Spaniel Paddy is a fully trained explosives detection dog. He has the astounding ability to sniff out one billionth of a gram of an explosive substance and regularly provides crucial security to thousands of members of the public. We will join Paddy and his handler Collin as they take part in a training exercise at St. David's Cathedral in West Wales. Sniffing out decoys with traces of explosive material will ensure that he always remains alert and effective. To Paddy it may be a game, but he is training to help prevent the loss of life. Black Labrador Treo is the latest canine recipient of the PDSA Dickin Medal, the highest honor that an animal can receive for outstanding bravery. During his tour of duty in Afghanistan, Treo located two large explosive devices. Had these gone undetected, numerous lives would have surely been lost. We will meet the now retired Treo and handler Dave Heyhoe, along with protection dog Bronco and tracker dog Sully, who are currently training with the British Army at the 101 Military Working Dog Support Unit in Aldershot for an upcoming posting.